Monday, August 22, 2011

Going apes**t!

I went to see Rise of the Planet of the Apes. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Well it was about attributing human characteristics to non humans, so of course it was right up my street!
There was one scene that really struck a chord with me.

Will and Kelly were leaving Caesar in the animal shelter. The utter distress at leaving their loved one in someone else's care was tangible. Caesar's little eyes pleaded with them not to abandon him, even for a while. The owner of the shelter then said something along the lines of
"Prolonging the goodbye only makes matters worse. Its much better if you just leave. He'll get over it much quicker and he'll be fine in a few minutes."
It suddenly struck me that those are the exact words that every Junior Infant teacher will be saying to distraught parents on the first of September as they struggle to leave their little offspring in someone else's care!

For all such parents out there I would like to stress that

It really is better to say goodbye and leave. Within minutes your child will be happily playing, colouring and making new friends. I know you don't want to hear this, but they will forget all about you til home time

Contrary to popular opinion, Teacher will not use water cannon or Tazer guns to subdue your child if he/she gets unruly.